Two of Hartwell First’s members were selected as Teacher of the Year in their respective schools, Amanda Ayers from Hart Co. Middle School and Ana Gordy from Hart Co. High School.

Amanda graduated from UGA in 1999 and began teaching in Abbeville, S.C.  After 7 years she accepted an art position at Hart Co. Middle. When asked how she thought the role of teachers might improve: “I would like teachers to be viewed as professionals, despite time off in summer. I want people to realize that teaching is a calling and that we do so much more than teach: counsel, encourage, parent, etc.”

Ana received her BSED at UGA and her EDS from Clemson. She has taught at Elbert Co. High School for 14 years and has been teaching at HCHS for the last three. On improving the role of teachers: “I would like to see there be more of a partnership between parents, community and teachers. Since I started teaching, I’ve brought in guest speakers from the community as well as parents from all professions to talk to my students about the importance of speaking Spanish in the work force, especially business and medical.  However, I would love to have more parent involvement and corporate sponsoring throughout the system.  I love teaching in Hart Co. because I have had such a positive response from parents and many do take an active roll.”

Amanda and Anna will compete with 3 other teachers for System Wide Teacher of the Year.